Parenting is never easy, even when there are two parents in the home. It is important to realize that one parent cannot fill the roles of both mother and father. You cannot do the work of two parents, but you can be a successful parent.

Single parents say they have been successful when they have

• optimistic attitudes about themselves and the future;
• people to turn to for support and in times of emergencies;
• open channels of communication;
• time to relax;
• agreeable, supportive relationships with family and former partner;
• firm rules and standards for their children;
• financial or job security;
• friendly neighbors and caring teachers;
• reliable child care; and
• knowledge about where to go for help.